RV TIPS

• Roof inspection needs to be performed twice a year in the spring and the fall
• Check for cracking of the caulking and cleanliness of the roof

• A properly maintained and charged battery will last for years.
• Fully charge your batteries, install them properly and check levels.
• Never let the electrolyte level of a wet battery fall below the plates. Lack of maintaining the electrolyte in a wet battery causes damage (sulfation) to the exposed portion of the plate that reduces capacity.
• Replenish fluid levels with distilled water only.
• Always keep the tops and terminals of batteries clean and free from corrosion. The film on top of the battery will cause the current to migrate between the posts, accelerating self-discharge.
• It is important for battery longevity to be stored in a completely charged state. The sulphate that forms during discharge should not be ignored for an extended period because severe sulphating will occur. This makes the battery impossible to recharge fully and completely.

• If you use a deep-cycle battery follow these maintenance tips to get the best performance:

1. Check the level of electrolytes frequently. Add distilled water to cover the plates. Avoid overfilling. If the electrolyte level drops below the top of the plates, this causes them to dry out,  and the capacity of the batter is reduced significantly.
2. Keep terminal connections and cables free from corrosion. If corrosion builds up it can reduce or even block the flow of power completely. Clean battery terminals with a wire brush. Make them shine and then coat them with a heavy-bodied lubricant.
3. Fully recharge the battery after each use. If the battery is allowed to stand discharged for long periods of time or in a partially discharged state the plates harden to the point where it is very difficult to recharge the battery completely 10 AMP charger is recommended.
4. When not in use, store the battery, fully charged, in a cool dry place. If the battery must be stored for several months you should recharge it every 60-90 days
5. Freezing temperatures and inactivity can be harmful to deep-cycle batteries. The best practice is to remove the batteries in the winter and store them in the above-freezing environment. If they sit for several months, a boost charge should be given every 2-3 months. A low-current trickle charger is ideal for this task. Batteries will self-discharge an average of 5% per month!

• Slides and levelling systems are the main cause of low battery voltage.
• Always check to ensure your batteries are fully charged before attempting to use either system.

• De-winterize the water system and check for water leaks.
• All gas appliances should be checked on a yearly basis to ensure proper operations.
• Make sure there are no leaks in the propane gas system – gas fittings should be tested annually by a certified technician at an RV dealership.
• Check the operation of all propane gas-fired appliances.
• Ensure the water heater is full of water, inspect it and then test it. 
• Check the air pressure in your tires and inspect for dry rot – don’t forget the spare!
• Check the condition of the tread, tire integrity and the age of the rubber.
• For motorhomes, check the transmission fluid, engine oil, windshield washer and brake fluid.
• Make sure your bearings are repacked every 5,000km.
• If the unit has a generator, the generator should be exercised annually if not used.
• Inspect the generator for any damage, and oil & fluid levels and check the exhaust system.
• Reinstall dry cell batteries or fuses that were removed for storage.
• Check carbon monoxide detector, LP gas leak detector and smoke alarm.
• Check fire extinguishers and make sure they are fully charged.
• Check for any water damage, rodents or insects that have found a home in your RV over the winter.
• Open, dry out and clean the awning, slides and slide toppers.
• Examine the outer body of your RV for any damage.
• Check all lights and signals.
• Check electric brakes and brake-away cables for proper operation.
• Check your hydraulic jacks and hydraulic fluid levels.
• Check, inspect and test run: furnace, air conditioner, slide-outs, electrical system and wastewater system.
• Repack your RV with gear that was stored for the winter.
• It is important to keep a log of all small issues/history of repairs for future reference.  

• Inspect for cracks/voids/tears/damage.
• Inspect vents/vent covers/antenna.
• Inspect all seals.
• Check running lights. 
• Ensure proper light operation.
• Clean any corrosion on the 7-way plug (if needed).

Get these important inspections performed properly by The High River Autoplex & RV Service Department.
To book an appointment please call Service at (403) 652-3171.  

• Empty all tanks on the trailer – including the waste tank (black) and freshwater tank (grey).
• Open low point drains until water and all fluids have stopped running out, then close them.
• Leave fresh water tank drain open.
• Pull the plug on the outside of the water heater to drain.
• On the interior back side of the water heater, close the cold water input valve.
• Open the cold to hot water line by-pass valve
  **Note** this will allow antifreeze to miss going into the hot water tank and will allow the antifreeze to by-pass and protect your lines.
• Remove the water filter from the filter housing, if left in, this will ruin your filter and turn the antifreeze clear.
• Turn the water pump input valve to pull off the open tube as opposed to pulling from the freshwater tank.
• Drop the tube into the antifreeze jug.
• Turn on the pump and open the taps one by one inside of RV.
• Leave open until pink antifreeze is coming out, do not forget the toilet and outside shower.
• Any leftover antifreeze should get dumped down drains and toilets to protect traps, etc.

Get ready for winter with The High River Autoplex Service Department Winterization Specials starting at $116.76.